Podcasts about Metro Council

One thing is true. What goes up must go down. That goes for relationships, that basketball you like to play with and even the city of Nashville.Recently, a study indicated Nashville is experiencing subsidence — or in simpler terms, the surface level is sinking. Experts continue to debate whether this phenomenon has any urgency. To shed light, we have geologists joining us to talk about what risks subsidence may pose, what causes it and how much human interaction comes into play. We're also talking about what else is going on underneath our cowboy boots so Olivia Hill with Metro Council and Lipscomb Professor Monica Sartain join our panel to share how energy is transferred through tunnels and pipes and how infrastructure gets us to where we need to go.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Special thanks to Caroline Eggers and Tony Gonzalez. GUESTS: Manoochehr Shirzaei — Professor of Geophysics, Virginia Tech Olivia Hill — Nashville Metro Council at-large Monica Sartain — Associate Professor of Civil Engineering, Lipscomb University Michael Zoccola — retired Geotechnical Engineer, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Nashville District)

Metro Council will consider and vote on the Substitute Budget Ordinance tomorrow night, which could replace the mayor's proposed budget for fiscal year 2026. What's in it, and how does this whole thing work? Councilmember Delishia Porterfield — who filed this year's substitute as chair of the Budget and Finance Committee — joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to tell us everything we need to know. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 16th episode: Nashville Zoo - The first 2,000 guests to visit the Zoo on June 20th for the ribbon cutting at 9:30 a.m get a free Leopard Forest bandana. Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Louisville's proposed $1.2 billion city budget is now in the hands of the Metro Council, and it could shape everything from public safety to housing to city services. On this episode, we check in with LPM's city government reporter Roberto Roldan to understand how the city's priorities are showing up in the proposal, and where the money might be headed.

The runaway zebra remains at large as CMA Fest descends upon our town, and Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek for today's Friday News Roundup. Tuesday's marathon Metro Council meeting featured over a hundred residents asking for a fair shake in the city's budget, as well as some pointed comments about a council member who's under fire; Sen. Marsha Blackburn is the latest to join the pile-on of Mayor O'Connell; and Old Tent City was officially closed earlier this week. But wait — are we “fake news”?   Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

We're getting you ready for tonight's public budget hearing with tips on speaking at Metro Council, plus contacting your representatives at the local, state, and federal levels … and staying sane in the process. Dr. Katrina Green and East Nashtivists founder Melissa Sautter join host Marie Cecile Anderson to explain how to use your voice.  Learn more about the sponsors of this June 3rd episode: ⁠Musicians Corner⁠ Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

It's been a tense week filled with ICE operations in South Nashville, including Sunday's enforcement action that detained a reported 94 people. Host Marie Cecile Anderson, executive producer Whitney Pastorek, and Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams break down Wednesday night's specially-called Public Health and Safety Committee meeting, where outraged residents and Metro Council members grilled city leadership about the events leading up to Sunday and how they plan to protect Nashville residents in the future. Plus, good news! Learn more about the sponsors of this May 9th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Music City Rodeo Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The Louisville Democrat Party chairman is Logan Gatti, an energetic young voice trying to bolser the number of Democrats in local offices.We discussed issues with party collegiality, trusting poll data, the value of mailers, and the burgeoning Republican strength in Louisville Metro Council.

JP Lyninger is a proud JCPS graduate of Dupont Manual High School, as well as the University of Louisville. J.P. Lyninger has spent much of his time Fighting for a better Louisville at protests against police violence, anti-war rallies, direct actions, and standing in solidarity with workers on picket lines. JP is a long-time activist and organizer. In 2022, he served as campaign manager for Shelby Park resident Robert LeVertis Bell's campaign for State Representative. Later that year, JP managed Access For All KY's “No On 2” campaign, working in coalition with other campaigns to successfully defeat Amendment 2's permanent ban on abortion access in Kentucky. JP Lyninger is an active and engaged member of the local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America. While currently a rank-and-file member of the chapter, he has previously held various leadership offices, including three terms as chapter Co-Chair. JP Lyninger is currently a member of the Louisville Metro Council representing District 6. JP ran for Metro Council because he knows a better world is possible. Louisville needs big changes to reverse economic and racial inequality. Louisville needs leaders ready to fight for the working class against budgets that prioritize tax deals for wealthy real estate developers over public transportation and basic infrastructure. JP is ready to fight with you for District 6, and for the needs of the working class across our city. In 2025, he serves as a member of the Ad Hoc Committee on Efficiencies of Boards & Commissions, Budget, Government Oversight/Audit & Appointments, and Parks & Sustainability Committees.

Olivia Hill made history in Tennessee as the first transgender person elected in the state when she won a widely contested Metro Council position in Nashville. From her unlikely path into politics, losing her white male privilege after transitioning to being a woman, to being an outspoken representative of trans people in the South, you're going to love this interview. Not only will you learn a lot, you'll walk away feeling hopeful and inspired! Olivia has that effect on people.     Chapters 00:29 - Meet Olivia Hill  01:37 - How she ended up in politics 04:08 - Local and state elections  12:50 - Responding to bullies 15:26 - Lived experiences as both a man and woman 22:04 - Education, representation, and progress 28:48 - Connect with Olivia   Follow Olivia on all social media platforms at oliviahill247 including Instagram https://instagram.com/oliviahill247, Facebook https://facebook.com/oliviahill247 and LinkedIn https:/linkedin.com/in/oliviahill247    For even more content and a daily dose of inspiration, follow me on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/HeatherJoyHubbard  

The Republicans are banning legal hemp products, the state budget passed with a curious exception, and what are the 48 most classic Nashville dishes of all time? Host Marie Cecile Anderson, executive producer Whitney Pastorek, and Metro Council contributor Nicole Williams are talking about all that and more on today's Friday News Roundup. Don't forget to come see us at Fridays by the River tonight! Learn more about the sponsors of this April 18th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

On April 7, 2025, CLOUT (Citizens of Louisville Organized and United Together) held its annual Nehemiah Action Assembly to offer solutions to community problems researched, discussed and agreed upon within their 12,000 + membership (over a year or more of committee work and consensus building), who represent 24 CLOUT member congregations in Louisville. These proposed solutions were then presented on stage to city officials, including Louisville Mayor Greenberg, JCPS Superintendent Dr. Polio, JCPS School Board member Logan Strange, former Deputy Mayor Barbara Sexton Smith, and Metro Council member Shameka Parrish Wright who were all individually asked whether they would follow through on these proposed solutions, to which they all answered YES. This provides a lesson in how organizations (in this case, churches) can collaborate together on local issues and band together into a 1000-strong assembly of members who all came together on April 7, 2025 to advocate for causes they supported and hold folks in positions of power accountable.

It's been a crazy weather week that's still not over. On today's Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson, executive producer Whitney Pastorek, and Metro Council contributor Nicole Williams catch you up on our storms and flooding, discuss the financial settlements reached at Tuesday's Metro Council meeting, and with the State of the City address on the horizon, we discuss what we'd like to hear from our mayor. And hey! Weather permitting, today is the first night of Fridays By the River, presented by City Cast Nashville! Come say hi! Learn more about the controversy at Nashville General Hospital here. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

We're back! Eva Frazier and I (Jonathan Maus) talked about all sorts of good stuff in this episode... from politics around I-5 Rose Quarter project to why the state's bike tax is so annoying. Here's a handy outline and links to stuff we talked about:Bike shop banter: My new Metropolis Cycle tie-dye t-shirt, latest shop closures.Thoughts on the I-5 Rose Quarter vote at Metro Council and why I'm disappointed in Lynn Peterson and Duncan Hwang. And the bad optics of white urbanists opposing the project while Black Portlanders support it. Ladds 500 is next weekend! (4/12)Protest season is here. Hands Off Rally is Saturday, 4/5Eva shares here Saturdays in May ride series.Why hasn't PBOT revealed downtown Sunday Parkways route?How you can eat and drink your way through the week with Portland bike events.New segment of the Green Loop through North Park BlocksNew bike lane coming to NE PrescottConvo with Candace Avalos and policingHow'd he get there? I share my route from North Portland (Peninsula Park) to SE 122nd and Stark (Midland Library).Legislative transportation package draft is out. Why the bike tax is so annoying.April 26th is carfree 82nd Ave Parade and a Cycle Oregon Block Party at Baerlic Brewing in Southeast Thanks for listening! Please become a paid BikePortland subscriber today!

In a city where neighborhoods are begging for sidewalks, the residents of Belle Meade Boulevard are suing to stop one. Plus, the state is still trying to cut our Metro Council in half, Ag Day on the Hill was once again a classic photo opportunity (click here to see the photo of Gov. Bill Lee referenced in the episode), and we're updating you on the bills that caught our eye in the TNLeg this week. Nashville Scene columnist and City Cast Nashville contributor Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to help make sense of it all.  Learn more about the sponsors of this March 21st episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Given the massive success of the Athletes Unlimited pro women's basketball tourney, the Vanderbilt University women's team lighting up the court, and a Pat Summitt-inspired proposal for a WNBA expansion team making headlines, producer Daniel Sumstine sits down with former Metro Council member and lady hoops superfan Nancy VanReece to find out why women's basketball is having a moment. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 11th episode: Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

We decided to try it again: We asked six people from different parts of the region to share with us, and we were not disappointed.  You'll hear from folks of all ages and backgrounds. Sit back and open up your ears as we hear from a middle schooler, college junior, entrepreneur, a retired community member, a long time Nashville resident, and a sitting Metro Council member. They all provide us with a lot of food for thought.We present… This Is Nashvillians: Part 2.This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona.Guests: Kevin Warner Mariana Cokely Carlos Partee Sandra Sepulveda Lauren Hayney Stephen Doster Music playlist: “Spring Again” – Lou Rawls “It Ain't Necessarily Bird Avenue” – Spanky & Our Gang “One More Dance” – D4vd “Say It Isn't So” – Hall & Oates “Cashville Stomp” – Upchurch (feat Young Buck) “Sunday” – HNNY “Dés Memain” – Holden “Clay Pigeons” – John Prine “In My Dreams” – Emmy Lou Harris “Get Dis Money” – Slum Village

And now, the exciting conclusion of Metro Council's two-part Fusus cliffhanger! Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams joins us to talk through the latest local news, including poorly-timed cuts to the National Weather Service, the threatened closure of a local Social Security office, and a weird group home in DC being run by local car dealer Lee Beaman. Finally, we're celebrating being named the 6th most sinful state in the nation by discussing where in Nashville we'd like to indulge in the 7 deadly ones. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 7th episode: Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

A thrilling Metro Council meeting this week ended in a cliffhanger, as CMs voted to adjourn due to snow in the middle of the Fusus guardrails debate. Contributor and Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek for more on that, and a Historic Zoning Commission realignment that caused confusion. Plus, students speak out about safety and book bans, the Trump Administration's funding cuts and DEI mandates impact local schools, and we're not so sure about Restaurant Week. Read more about students' thoughts on safety, book bans, and Vanderbit's response to the elimination of DEI. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 21st episode:  Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

After a Metro Council meeting that reached “Parks & Rec”-style levels of hilarity, contributor Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to catch us up on what went down. Plus we've got the newly-filed bills that caught our eye at the legislature this week — including Pot for Potholes! — and a vibe check that includes Kroger, In-N-Out, and the chance to catch a real live Puppy Bowl at the Zoo on Sunday. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The TN General Assembly blazed through a four-day special session this week, and the Republican-controlled legislature successfully passed Gov. Bill Lee's signature school voucher plan, as well as an immigration bill with a provision that seemingly targets Nashville by making it a felony for any local public official to vote in favor of “sanctuary policies.” Host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer Daniel Sumstine, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are breaking that down on today's Friday News Roundup. Plus: Updates on Antioch High School security, Fusus returns at Tuesday's Metro Council meeting, a preview of the local artists up for GRAMMYs at Sunday's ceremony, and some great news from Dolly Parton. We're doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

We've got the latest updates on Wednesday's tragic Antioch High School shooting, and Metro Council contributor Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to run down what happened at Tuesday's first Metro Council meeting of 2025 — and explain a new state bill that could see local officials hit with felonies for simply casting a vote. Plus, we found some good news, from Silver Sands, Nate Bargatze, and our favorite community fridge. The family of Antioch shooting victim Josselin Corea Escalante has set up a GoFundMe to cover the return of her body to Guatemala. Donate here. We're doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 22nd episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST

This week Robert and Jazmin talked about two major issues: the student voice team suing the legislature about the adequacy of the education system, and the surprising election of a Metro Council President. Afterwards, Robert sits down with Pamela Stevenson to talk about her first term as Democratic leader in the Kentucky House.

Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking about the budget boost Portland City Council just voted in for themselves this week and their game plan for committee work. We're also looking into Metro Council's proposed changes to the homeless services tax that Multnomah County commissioners are not too happy about. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are Oregonian City Hall reporter Shane Dixon Kavanaugh and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Portland City Council Greenlights $4.6M Boost for Council, Mayoral Budgets [Oregonian

We promised drama at Tuesday's Metro Council meeting and it delivered — although not in the way we expected. Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek for the final Friday News Roundup of 2024. She's explaining why Morgan Wallen's sign got approved without discussion and how a resolution involving public safety departments sparked emotions. Nicole and Whitney also go long on the “Survivor” finale (where local Titans beat reporter Sam Phalen made the final three), Marie alerts us to Justin Timberlake's wardrobe malfunction at Bridgestone, and everyone shares their New Year's resolutions for Nashville. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.  Learn more about the sponsor of this Dec. 20th episode: Tecovas

On today's Friday News Roundup, Metro Council contributor Nicole Willams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to take us inside Tuesday's Metro Council meeting, where the proposed contract with surveillance tech platform Fusus failed, by one vote. We're also talking about our faves in the annual Nashville Scene Boner Awards — celebrating the year's biggest screw-ups — and responding to Spotify Wrapped's list of the top songs in Nashville for 2024. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.  Learn more about the sponsor of this Dec. 6th episode: Tecovas

On today's Friday News Roundup, it's acronym day! District 25 Metro Council member Jeff Preptit joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to give us his take on Tuesday's council meeting, where MNPD's contract with surveillance tech company FUSUS was deferred once again after a passionate public hearing. We're also talking about the CRB's new MOU with MNPD, the Mayor's $527 million proposed CSP, and with sunset now at 4:30 p.m., how we're managing our SAD. Not sure what any of those letters mean? We've got you covered.  Learn more about Alex Wong and his new album, “Permission.” Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.  Learn more about the sponsor of this Nov. 21st episode: Tecovas

On today's Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are joined by Nashville Banner Metro reporter Stephen Elliott. He's catching us up on the happenings at Metro Council — where recent focus has been on MNPD funding — and giving us a preview of next week's meeting, where they'll be considering the reinstatement of a contract for the surveillance tech company FUSUS. We're also flabbergasted at the prices for Personal Seat Licenses in the new Titans stadium, and excited about the Mariah Carey Christmas pop-up bar that opens at the Virgin Hotel tonight. And stick around after the roundup for our Don't Go Gently tip for the weekend, presented by Tecovas. The Frist Arts Fest is happening this Sunday from 1 to 5:30pm! Head downtown to enjoy a day of art-making, music, and more. They'll have glass-blowing demonstrations, a scavenger hunt, lawn games, and performances from the Sunrise Latin Band and Nashville TIE-ko. You can even make your own koi fish windsock. It's $15 for adults, but kids get in free, and be sure to check out the museum's great exhibitions while you're there. Don't go gently, go in Tecovas! Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

On today's Friday News Roundup, we're doing a speed run down the Nov. 5 ballot, and reading your responses to the question, “Why do you or do you not vote?” City Cast Nashville contributor and Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to catch us up on Metro Council drama and look ahead to the next meeting. Plus: How Nashville was at the center of baseball's biggest scandal this week. Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor! Election Day is Nov. 5. Here is a sample ballot. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Ruth and co-host Victoria Strange discuss candidates running in the 2024 General Election for Louisville Metro Council District 12, Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor, and Kentucky House Districts 36 and 29

KPW is back from a week's hiatus and there's lots to get to. The scandal list long this week with LMPD, the Metro Council. and Juvenile Justice leading the way. Also, there's the aftermath of hurricanes and a discussion of the Kentucky Right to Life endorsement list.

In this interview, Voters Organized to Educate sat down with Jasmine Davis Spencer,  candidate for Baton Rouge Metro Council District 10. Recorded at our Baton Rouge office on October 7, 2024, Bruce Reilly and Checo Yancy talked with Ms. Spencer about her roots in the city, the Baton Rouge jail construction, her own family's experience with incarceration, and the blessing/curse of having LSU in District 10. 

On today's Friday News Roundup, producer Marie Cecile Anderson and EP Whitney Pastorek are joined by City Cast Nashville contributor and Metro Council columnist Nicole Williams, who's helping us celebrate the current Metro Council's first year in office by grading their progress. We've also got info on the sticky situation unfolding at the Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery — where the creator of their acclaimed “Journey to Jubilee” tour says her work is being altered to make white folks more comfortable — and a roundup of trusted nonprofits and mutual aid orgs you should consider donating to as recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Helene continues in the eastern part of our state.  And stick around after the roundup for our Don't Go Gently tip for the weekend, presented by our exclusive launch sponsor, Tecovas. Nashville Oktoberfest takes over Germantown this weekend! It's the longest continually running party in the Southeast, slinging beers, brats, and schnitzel since 1980. General admission tickets start at $10 — beer and food is extra — and don't miss the Dachshund Derby on Sunday in Bicentennial Park. We recommend a rideshare for this event, since parking is bonkers and you'll probably be imbibing. Make good choices and have fun! And hey — don't go gently, go in Tecovas! The deadline to register to vote for November's Federal and State election is Oct. 7. Register, check your status, or update your information at govotetn.com. Here are some of the organizations we mentioned in our relief roundup: East Tennessee Foundation Community Foundation of Western NC Georgia VOAD BeLoved Asheville PODER Emma ShowerUp Nashville World Central Kitchen By the way, we'd love for you to write in and tell us why you vote — or don't vote — for a special episode we're planning.  Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

In places where there is homelessness, we often see clashes between neighbors and businesses, service providers and the government. And, as neighbors and businesses lose patience, they can put pressure on politicians to find quick solutions, which can result in the abrupt removal of people and their encampment structures from public spaces. In today's episode, we discuss how to mitigate tension by finding the middle ground — and solutions that address the needs of those experiencing homelessness and reduce negative community impact.This series was created thanks in part to support from Pinnacle Financial Partners and was produced by Judy Tackett and Tasha A.F. Lemley.Today's guests:Mark Horvath | Founder and CEO, Invisible PeopleRyan Lampa | Founder and CEO, People Loving NashvilleCouncilman Jacob Kupin | Member, Metro Council; Founder, The Kupin GroupDede Byrd | Certified registered nurse anesthetist (retired)Tyrese Payton | Guest Commentator

On this week's Friday News Roundup, executive producer Whitney Pastorek and producer Marie Cecile Anderson are joined by Metro Council contributor Nicole Williams for an update on Council's recommendation that MNPD adopt a zero-tolerance sexual misconduct policy, as well as the four anti-Nazi bills recently proposed by the mayor. We've also got your preview of the Nashville Film Festival, updates on Old Tent City and Wasioto Park, and some exciting new restaurants to check out. Plus, there's a contestant from Nashville on the new season of “Survivor”! And stick around after the roundup for our Don't Go Gently tip for the weekend, presented by our exclusive launch sponsor, Tecovas. Two incredible festivals are in full swing this weekend: AmericanaFest and the Nashville Film Festival. While the headlining artists and big-name films may already be sold out, it's the perfect time to discover something new. On Saturday, start your evening at 7 p.m. at Mirror Mirror on Lebanon Pike to catch Norwegian alt-pop duo Ask Carol, and then head to the Regal Green Hills Theater to creep yourself out with the block of Graveyard Shift Shorts that starts at 9 p.m. Don't go gently, go in Tecovas! The deadline to register to vote for November's Federal and State elections is Oct. 7. Register, check your status, or update your information at govotetn.com. By the way, we'd love for you to write in and tell us why you vote — or don't vote — for a special episode we're planning.  Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

This week we welcomed Josie Raymond back to My Old Kentucky Podcast. She talked to us about her decision to forgo reelection to the House of Representatives in order to run for Metro Council, and what she hopes to accomplish at City Hall in her next term. Before speaking with Josie, Robert and Jazmin spoke about LMPD hiring a new chief and about the shootings that occurred along I-75 last week.

Louisville has a big decision to make about what kind of public transportation system it wants. Transit Authority of River City, better known as TARC, is facing a "fiscal cliff" as a result of several factors, including covid-era stimulus funding running out. We talked about the issues with TARC executive director Ozzy Gibson on a bonus episode of the Access Louisville podcast this week. Gibson and others want to hear from the community about what they want out of the agency. And it's collecting input via an online survey, which you can take part in here. The deadline for the survey is Sept. 20.Lots of people around town, and on social media, have voiced support for a robust transit system, complete with rail and bus offerings. But, as Smith explains on the show, it's most certainly a financial issue. "Everybody tells me, you need to look at what Cincinnati's doing, Indy. They tell me to look at Richmond [Virginia] — all three of those raised taxes to get the good service they have." For Louisville to do that it would require the support of 14 Metro Council members to bring fourth a referendum, which would then be decided on by the voters. A few of the aforementioned cities raised taxes in 2017 or 2018, so when they got money from Covid-era stimulus packages, they were able to make upgrades and add new busses, Gibson said. Louisville, had to use its stimulus money to keep service running — and now that's running out."If we wanna be the best, it's gonna cost money to get there," Gibson said. "Otherwise, we're just going to be little ol' TARC. We will be cut [by] 50%. And how long will it take us to get back to where we were? Maybe not in my lifetime. If people don't take the survey and reach out to the powers that be, we can't be anything." Service cuts are already the first of a three-pronged strategy to address the operational budget gap projected to be as much as $30 million by July 2026 without cuts, additional revenue or some combination of the two. Those strategies include:The January 2025 service reductions.A community-focused network redesign process called TARC 2025 that launches this summer and will result in a full plan for an updated TARC network within the reality of available funding by February 2025.Comprehensive efforts to identify new sources of revenue to support service from local, state, and federal sources.Access Louisville is a weekly podcast from Louisville Business First. It's available on popular podcast services, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify, which are linked above. You can also listen in the player above. Since this is a bonus episode, look for us to drop another episode later this week. 

Metro Council just passed a new rule requiring proof of Tennessee residency to speak at public comment, and Mayor Freddie O'Connell's slate of new anti-Nazi measures will be on second reading at next week's meeting. To help put these recent legislative actions into context, we're revisiting our conversation with State Senator Heidi Campbell from earlier this summer. What makes our city such an attractive place for neo-Nazis, white supremacists, and Christian nationalists to demonstrate? What is Christian nationalism, and who is fueling that movement? And if these far-right groups consider Nashville to be “the tip of the spear” for their ideologies, what are the potential implications for our city — as well as for our state, our country, and democracy on a global scale? You can hear our episode on the Council rule change here. You can hear our episode on Mayor O'Connell's new measures here. Need to register to vote for the November election? Visit govotetn.com. By the way, we'd love for you to write in and tell us why you do or don't vote for a special episode we're planning.  Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor! Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. **This episode originally aired July 17, 2024

Nashville Scene columnist and City Cast Nashville Metro Council contributor Nicole Williams is back for today's Friday News Roundup! She joins host Grace Fuisz and producer Marie Cecile Anderson to talk about the East Bank Development Authority, the recent protests happening around town — from striking AT&T workers to people with disabilities demanding better transit access — and the criminal mastermind who got arrested this week thanks to surveillance footage of him vandalizing the rainbow crosswalk outside Lipstick Lounge while driving his work van. Plus: don't miss the return one of our favorite new segments: Real or Fake Tennessee Headlines! [crowd goes wild] And stick around after the roundup for our Don't Go Gently tip for the weekend, presented by our exclusive launch sponsor, Tecovas. This weekend, we're recommending that you lend a helping hand at the 12th annual Community Beautification Day in North Nashville. You can sign up here, or check out our article on other volunteering opportunities if you can't make it. Don't go gently, go in Tecovas! Best of Nashville voting is now open, and we'd love your consideration as Best Podcast. Vote here! Need to register to vote for the November election? Visit govotetn.com. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

Vice Mayor Angie Henderson joins the program to share the accomplishments and what still needs to be done in Metro Nashville on this edition of Inside Politics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's Friday News Roundup, host Grace Fuisz is joined by executive producer Whitney Pastorek and one of our favorite contributors, Metro Council expert and Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams. We've got your update on all the drama from this week's Council meeting, ways you can step up and get involved locally as a Metro board member or campaign volunteer, and the scoop on why the FBI seized Congressman Andy Ogles' cell phone. Plus, we debut our newest segment, 1-Star Reviews of Iconic Nashville Institutions, because Nicole is our game show guinea pig. And stick around after the roundup for our Don't Go Gently tip for the weekend, presented by our exclusive launch sponsor, Tecovas. This week, we're recommending you grab breakfast on Saturday at Sky Blue Cafe in East Nashville ahead of the Tomato Art Fest parade. Have questions about contacting your Metro Council member? Email Nicole! Need to register to vote for the November election? Visit govotetn.com. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

Host Grace Fuisz is on vacation, so we got the next best thing: Mayor Freddie O'Connell sits in for the Tuesday News Roundup with producer Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek. He's talking about administrative accomplishments like the opening of permanent supportive housing facility Strobel House and the countywide expansion of Nashville Strong Babies; we also get updates on the frustrations of our Community Review Board, how he's handling our neo-Nazi problem, and his rationale for keeping Wally Dietz as head of Metro Legal despite the controversies that have swirled around that department in the last year. (In related good news: late yesterday afternoon, Metro Legal won its lawsuit against the state's attempt to shrink the size of Metro Council, with a court declaring that law unconstitutional.) Plus: more on our upcoming transit referendum, and — now that Nissan Stadium kinda has no parking lot — his message to prospective tailgate partiers. Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor!  The August 1 primary election is on Thursday! Here is a sample ballot for the Aug. 1 election with early voting locations and hours. Here is a non-partisan voter guide for the Aug. 1 election. Check your voter registration here. If you haven't yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the Aug. 1 election — but you can still register for the Nov. 5th federal election.   Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

District 17 Metro Councilmember Terry Vo joins host Grace Fuisz to talk about why solving Nashville's “food apartheid” problem is her top legislative priority. Plus, she reveals her secret identity as an Elite Yelper, and takes us on a tour of some of her favorite Nashville international restaurants and markets. This is the first in what we hope will be a recurring series in which we get to know our 40 Metro Council members. Should we interview yours? Email us at nashville@citycast.fm! Need to find out who yours is? Click here. Here are the restaurants, markets, and food influencers discussed in this episode: InterAsian Market & Deli K&S World Market Sonobana Japanese Restaurant + Grocery Cho A Dong Suraj Spices and Teas Patel Brothers Jerusalem Reebar Osh Restaurant and Grill Tailor Nashville Nawabi Hyderabad House Dino's Nashville Hidden Gems Eat Nashville Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor!  Early voting for the August 1 primary election is open now through July 27!  Here is a sample ballot for the Aug. 1 election with early voting locations and hours. Here is a non-partisan voter guide for the Aug. 1 election. Request an absentee ballot here. The deadline for the Aug. 1 election is July 25th. The USPS recommends mailing the form no later than July 18th. Check your voter registration here. If you haven't yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the Aug. 1 election — but you can still register for the Nov. 5th federal election.   Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

On today's Friday News Roundup, host Grace Fuisz, producer Marie Cecile Anderson, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are coming down off a chaotic week that saw a local business owner in hot water over his comments about the Trump assassination attempt, a Metro Council member storming out of Tuesday's meeting, a Nashville artist going viral for her apparently drunken rendition of the National Anthem, and, of course, the ongoing presence of neo-Nazis. We'll get into all of that, and then we'll offer you (and ourselves) some suggestions on where to seek inner peace. Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor! Early voting for the August 1 primary election is open now through July 27!  Here is a sample ballot for the Aug. 1 election with early voting locations and hours. Here is a non-partisan voter guide for the Aug. 1 election. Request an absentee ballot here. The deadline for the Aug. 1 election is July 25th. The USPS recommends mailing the form no later than July 18th. Check your voter registration here. If you haven't yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the Aug. 1 election — but you can still register for the Nov. 5th federal election.   Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Today, we're speaking with Caché McClay, The Tennessean's dedicated Beyoncé reporter, and Bryan West, The Tennessean's dedicated Taylor Swift reporter, about what it's like to cover two global superstars from here in Nashville. Julia Masters from the Nashville Business Journal will be in to break down her recent entertainment coverage, including: a new plan by hospitality leaders to shape tourism in Nashville, the current trends in local restaurants, and Metro Council's look into how to better support independently owned venues. Plus, we're checking in with Gracie Fuisz, the host of the recently launched City Cast Nashville podcast.Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys.GUESTS Caché McClay | Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, The Tennessean Bryan West | Taylor Swift reporter, The Tennessean Julia Masters | Entertainment reporter, Nashville Business Journal Grace Fuisz | Host, City Cast Nashville

We've got Nashville Scene columnist and Metro Council expert Nicole Williams in the house on this Metro Council Tuesday with a preview of things to watch at tonight's meeting, including a big age discrimination settlement and some important food truck news. She also joins host Grace Fuisz and producer Marie Cecile Anderson for our wrap up of Burger Week 2024 (until next year, Burger Queen), and the debut of our new game show segment, “Real or Fake Tennessee Headlines?” Early voting for the August 1 primary election is open now through July 27!  Here is a sample ballot for the Aug. 1 election with early voting locations and hours. Here is a non-partisan voter guide for the Aug. 1 election. Request an absentee ballot here. The deadline for the Aug. 1 election is July 25th. The USPS recommends mailing the form no later than July 18th. Check your voter registration here. If you haven't yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the Aug. 1 election — but you can still register for the Nov. 5th federal election.   Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor! Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

Nashville Scene columnist and Metro Council expert Nicole Williams joins host Grace Fuisz and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to give us the rundown of what's on the Council agenda for tonight's meeting. Plus: We give you the scoop on the Catalyst Fund — an exciting new loan program designed to incentivize the building and protection of affordable housing — and allow ourselves to imagine what we would do if we found a million dollars under our name at ClaimItTN.gov, the website where the state is diligently working to return missing money to its rightful owners. Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor!  You can read the agenda for tonight's Metro Council meeting here. You can find out who your Metro Council member is here. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. 

“My whole mission is just to affect positive change with people, and housing is such a key component to people's health, well-being, and safety.” -- Andrea Prince According to Nashville's 2021 Affordable Housing Task Force, chaired by Mayor John Cooper, the city must create 52,498 new housing units by 2030—a daunting challenge, given that only 1,344 affordable units were being built annually at the time of the report. Today on The Climbing the Charts Podcast, as recorded by our sister podcast The Real Estate Mailbag, we're joined by Matthew Wiltshire, President of Pathway Affordable Housing Corp. and former Chief Strategy Officer at MDHA, Andrea Prince, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Nashville, and Joshua Haston, Development Manager at LDG Development, LLC and Board Member of the Nashville Industrial Board. These leaders share their personal journeys and insights into tackling Nashville's housing crisis, discussing innovative city tools and divisive zoning proposals debated in Metro Council. They also explore the impact of Tennessee's new “home bond” bill on affordable housing. Tune in to understand why affordable housing isn't just crucial for your future, but for the future of Music City itself!

This week on the Friday News Roundup, host Grace Fuisz, producer Marie Cecile Anderson, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek discuss the awesome substitute budget passed at Tuesday's Metro Council meeting, discuss their plans for Pride this weekend, and address their burgeoning Chappell Roan obsession. Plus: remembering Tennessee Crossroads host Joe Elmore. Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor!  Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Nicole Williams is Nashville's foremost expert on all things Metro Council — you may know her as @startleseasily on Twitter — and she joins host Grace Fuisz to cover the basics. What does Metro Council do? When are the meetings? How can ordinary folks get involved? Plus: a preview of the issues on the floor tonight, including this year's budget and a vote of no confidence in the directors of both Metro Legal and Metro Finance. And who knew that “taser” was a brand name? You can read the agenda for tonight's Metro Council meeting here. You can find out who your Metro Council member is here. Thanks to Tecovas, our Western wear faves, for being our exclusive launch sponsor!  Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392⁩ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Big Fella, aka Willie Sims, Jr., is a musician, entertainer, TV producer, community activist and advocate, ordained minister, board member, chef, teacher, life coach and is known by many as the Unofficial Mayor of Music City.You may have seen his self-produced cooking show, Cookin' Wit' Big Fella. Perhaps, you know him from the Juneteenth fireworks celebration at Fort Negley. Or maybe you've run into him at a fundraising event, Metro Council meeting or a really great party.Today, he joins us to talk about his life — his early years, how he came to Nashville and what living here means to him.This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona.Further reading and listening: You can listen to our Halloween 2023 sketch episode when host Khalil Ekulona and producer Elizabeth Burton visited the scariest places in Nashville in search of Big Fella. In November, we also aired a follow up call-in show to the Halloween episode to get your feedback on what turned out to be a bit of a controversial episode. Big Fella's cooking show can be found on YouTube. There's a lot going on in Nashville to celebrate Juneteenth. You can find out what's happening at juneteenth615.com.